A CASH boost of £100,000 has been pledged by Warwickshire County Council to help communities set up their own libraries.

The council say the move is the result of “strong interest” from residents in either setting up their own lending service or cheaply leasing libraries facing the axe due to £2million cuts.

A special pack – including an expression of interest form, a business case template and further guidance – has been prepared to help volunteers effectively present their case to the council. Successful plans will result in a one-off cash injection.

Cllr Colin Hayfield, portfolio holder for customers, workforce and partnerships, said: “We have already had strong interest from a number of communities who are interested in setting up their own libraries.

“We recognise local people may require assistance with start-up costs and that is why we are setting aside a fund of £100,000.

“We are also making the process easier by offering support to help people submit their business case, and offer advice on a range of operational issues to help build a sustainable model for the future.”

The council has also said it will consider leasing library premises to community groups at a peppercorn rent, or at less than market value. for an initial period of one year.

A total of 16 of the county’s 34 libraries are under threat of closure, and others could have their opening hours cut as the council struggles to reduce its total budget by £66m over the next three years – with £2million slashed from the £7.4million library and information pot.

The public consultation on the plans started on March 18 and runs until June 9.

A series of roadshows and public meetings have been arranged so people can find out more and have their say.

For more information, residents can visit their local library or go to www.warwickshire.gov.uk/facingthechallenge.